Federal Polytechnic Ilaro Journal of Pure And Applied Sciences

MATERIAL MATTERS: THE ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES OF NON-TRADITIONAL AGIDIGBO CONSTRUCTION

2024-07-06T08:57:48+00:00

This research explores the acoustic characteristics of non-traditional Agidigbo musical instruments. The construction of the Agidigbo, a traditional musical instrument from Nigeria, has changed over time, with its construction usually consisting of local materials, precisely wood. This research explores the acoustic effects of using unconventional materials and methods to fabricate Agidigbo. The study presents an analysis of conventional and non-traditional construction methods with an emphasis on acoustic properties such as frequency/pitch, resonance and tonal quality. Using standardized acoustic and musical techniques, Agidigbo prototypes are tested as part of the research methodology. The results show that traditional and non-traditional Agidigbo construction have significantly different acoustic properties, demonstrating the impact of materials on sound quality and output. The results further our knowledge of the connection between material selection and acoustic performance in the building of musical instruments. This research offers insights into optimizing Agidigbo construction for improved acoustic performance, while maintaining traditional workmanship, which has significance for musicians, instrument makers, and cultural preservationists.

BLOOD PROFILE AND INTESTINAL MICROBES OF PULLET CHICKENS FED PHYLLANTHUS NIRURI LEAF MEAL

2024-07-06T07:47:35+00:00

The use of chemical growth promoters as additives despite their adverse effects on animal and public health has compelled researchers to source natural alternatives such as plant-based or phytogenic feed additives. This study assessed the impact of Phyllanthus niruri leaf meal (PNLM) on the caecum microbial population and layers chicken's blood profile during the growth stage. The collected P. niruri leaves were milled after being air-dried at room temperature (25^oC) for ten days and then added to the pullets' diet. 360 pullets were randomly allotted to 6 treatments (T) of 4 replicates each in a completely randomised manner with 60 and 15 birds per treatment and replicate respectively. Treatments (T) 1 to T6 had 0%, 0% +antibiotics, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5% inclusion levels of PNLM respectively. Some haematological and serum parameters including caecum microbial populations were investigated using standard procedures. Data were subjected to one-way ANOVA while significant differences were determined using Duncan’s multiple range test in SAS (P<0.05). The inclusion of PNLM significantly (P<0.05) influence the white blood cell, Lymphocyte and creatinine. The highest WBC (17.23 ± 4.50 x 10⁹/L) and creatinine values (4.63 ± 2.64 mg/dL) were recorded in T2. T5 had the highest Lymphocyte value (70.50 %). Inclusion of PNLM also improved beneficial bacteria in the caecum especially Pseudomonas and Bacillus spp. The study concluded that PNLM enhanced the beneficial microbes of the caecum without adverse effects on the blood profile.

EFFECT OF SEX AND ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETERS ON PERFORMANCE AND PHYSIOLOGY OF RABBIT

2024-07-06T08:40:19+00:00

The cramped conditions in which rabbits are housed in intensive breeding units have drawn criticism because it prevents them from exhibiting behaviours unique to their species. A research was done using a total of 40 weaner rabbits comprising of 20 of males (M) and 20 females (F) housed based on sex in galvanized battery cage hutches equipped with concrete feeders and drinkers and kept either indoor (I) or outdoor (O) for 56 days. The rabbit were grouped based on sex and housing system in a 2×2 factorial arrangement given rise to four treatments as follows: Treatment (T) 1: 10 MI, T 2: 10 F I, T 3: 10 M O, T 4: 10 F O. Growth performance, blood, body physiology and stress marker data was collected using standard procedures and subjected to analysis of variance in a completely randomized design using the SAS (2010) software package. Rabbits reared under the outdoor system had significantly (P<0.05) higher feed intake (4521.6g) than rabbits reared indoor (4184.9g). Rectal temperature, body temperature, haematological parameters were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by sex and housing systems. Rabbits reared outdoor had significant (P<0.05) higher creatinine level (0.99 mgdl^-1) than those reared indoor (0.62 mgdl^-1). FO rabbits had a significantly (P<0.05) higher cortisol level (6.59 and 6.94) when compared with the cortisol level of their male counterpart (4.44 and 4.93). It was concluded that growth performance was not different between male and female rabbits while cortisol level of female rabbits reared outdoor are higher than male rabbits. It was recommended that rearing rabbit indoor housing reduces stressors.

INVITRO ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF THE DIFFERENT SOLVENT FRACTIONS OF CRUDE METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF JUSTICIA CARNEA

2024-07-06T07:37:36+00:00

The necessity to examine medicinal plants for phytochemicals and bioactivities has been brought to light by the recent increase in interest in using native medicinal plants to treat diseases. This study aimed to assess the free radical scavenging activity of various solvent fractions of Justicia. carnea, and to evaluate and quantify the phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) content in various solvent fractions of the methanolic extract of J. carnea. The TPC was discovered to be high in methanolic and n-hexane fractions at (31.28 ± 0.020 and 21.40 ± 0.020 mg GAE/g respectively) a similar trend was also observed in TFC with n-hexane and methanolic fractions having a highest concentration at (18.30 ± 0.015 and 19.29 ± 0.023 mg QE/g). The result of the DPPH assay showed a concentration-dependent increase in activity across all fractions with the n-hexane faction displaying the highest activity at 80.21±0.025%, the aqueous, ethylacetate and methanol fraction had DPPH radical scavenging activity of 60, 68 and 61.67%, respectively. The FRAP assays showed that all fractions had a concentration-dependent increase in invitro antioxidant activity with the n-Hexane, aqueous, methanol and ethylacetate fractions displaying the highest activity to be 63.92%, 74.26, 57.61 and 65.20%, respectively. The activity observed can be attributed to the flavonoid content of the fractions. The findings from this study show that J. carnea is a viable medicinal alternative in preventing and treating diseases associated with oxidative stress.

FOOD PREFERENCES AND FORAGING ECOLOGY OF THE BLACK AND WHITE MANNIKIN BIRD (Spermestes bicolor) FOUND IN ILARO, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA.

2024-07-06T08:32:45+00:00

This study was conducted in Ilaro, Ogun State, Nigeria, in 2023, aiming to understand the food preferences and feeding behaviours of the Spermestes bicolor, commonly known as the Black and White Mannikin, to support sustainable tourism initiatives. This investigation spanned 12 months and focused on 20 pairs of Black and White Mannikins, ranging in size from one to ten, observed across three distinct areas: Residential zones, Farmland, and Fallowland. Data collection utilised the Direct Observation method, with researchers employing Bushnell 750 binoculars from dawn to dusk to minimize bird disturbance during feeding activities. Throughout the study period, detailed records were maintained regarding foraging locations, feeding techniques, feeding duration, bird population density, types of food consumed, and interactions with other avian species. Analysis of the gathered data revealed that the Black and White Mannikin's diet predominantly comprised plant-based resources, accounting for 70% of their intake. In comparison, insects constituted 27%, and the remaining 3% comprised leaves and flowers. Among plant-based foods, Panicum Maximum seeds were the most commonly consumed at 14.5%, followed by Lawsoniainermis fruits at 10.7%, and Ficus thonningii seeds at 8.6%. Regarding insects, Macrotermes bellicosus exhibited the highest frequency of observation at 16.2%, trailed by Parasysciasudanensis at 13%. Examination of habitat utilization patterns indicated that residential areas constituted 55% of the Black and White Mannikin's habitat, while farmland and fallow areas collectively represented 25%. These findings offer insights into the dietary preferences and habitat usage tendencies of the Black and White Mannikin within the study area, thereby providing valuable information for the development of strategies aimed at sustainable tourism management.

PROXIMATE, MINERALS, FUNCTIONAL AND ANTI-OXIDANT PROPERTIES OF CO-FERMENTED SORGHUM - PIGEON PEAS DRIED ‘OGI’ FLOUR AND GRUEL SENSORY ACCEPTABILITY

2024-07-06T09:09:29+00:00

This study aimed to reduce malnutrition in the tropics and a mixture of sorghum and pigeon peas at ratios: of 100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, and 60:40%) respectively were co-fermented to produce dried ‘Ogi’ flour. Proximate, minerals, functional and antioxidant properties of samples were evaluated and gruel sensory properties acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale. Results showed moisture, protein, ash, fat, fibre and carbohydrates had varied values (13.071 -10.684%, 16.315 - 9.893, 4.039 - 2.012%, 0.874 – 1.601%, 0.533 – 1.327% and 70.551 to 68.751%) respectively. Moisture, ash; fibre and carbohydrates had the highest value at 10% level and protein and fat at 20% level. Calcium and potassium had increased values (0.015 - 0.181% and 0.026%- 0.098%), respectively but sodium decreased (0.163% - 0.021%). Water and oil absorption capacity increased (1.130 - 1.340 ml/g and 1.025 - 1.180 ml/g respectively, loosed and tapped bulk density decreased (0.581 - 0.434 g/ml and 0.778 - 0.716 g/ml), respectively, and swelling capacity increased with heating temperatures. TFC, TPC and FRAP increased, DPPH decreased and TAC had highest value at 30% level. Gruel at 30% level was rated highest. Therefore, these showed that the mixture and co-fermentation had produced a nutrient-dense ‘ogi’ capable of tackling malnutrition in the tropics.

DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF A WALK-BEHIND DRIVEN MONO WHEEL AGRO-CHEMICAL BOOM SPRAYER.

2024-07-06T08:27:56+00:00

The rural subsistence agricultural farmers require a technologically improved boom sprayer for spraying agro-chemicals. This will protect crops from pests and disease attacks to improve yield. Farmers use ordinary knapsack sprayers for spraying by pushing the lever up and down to create the needed pressure for spray. This is time-consuming, accompanied by the operator’s drudgery leading to a small area of farmland being covered. This research aimed at increasing field performance capacity with minimal man-hour input to reduce drudgery. The designed equipment was constructed using a 20-litre capacity tank and four (4) precision nozzles for breaking liquid into droplets of effective sizes, distributing them uniformly over the surface to be applied using a slider crank mechanism. This was regulated using a hand-operated pressure regulator to avoid excessive application that might prove harmful and wasteful. At an average forward travel speed of 4 km/hr, the equipment TFC calculated was 1.04 ha/hr. For every 0.31 hectare of field coverage after 18 minutes, only 4 times of refilling was required; the AFC evaluated was 0.89 ha/hr while the FE of the equipment calculated was 86 % having an optimal uniformity of coverage.

THE EFFECT OF FACILITATING CONDITIONS AND SELF-EFFICACY ON BEHAVIORAL INTENTION OF SURVEYORS’ TOWARD PRACTICE: MODEL EVALUATION

2024-07-06T09:03:00+00:00

This research study tends to survey the direct effect of moderating variables on behavioural intention to surveying practice. It further purposes to assess the moderating role of self-efficacy on facilitating conditions to behavioural intention to practice. A total number of 84 questionnaires were processed for the analysis with responses coded for the SmartPLS software format. As a rule of thumb, item reliability, construct reliability and validity have a peak range of 0.7 and above. The generally accepted value for average variance extracted (AVE) is 0.5 or greater. The model fit result shows that model was within the Hu & Bentler adopted value less than 0.08 with a SRMR value of 0.073 was reported. This result from the reliability and validity test shows that tests are adequate with the structural analysis showing the self-efficacy is a very important variable, which explains over 70% of intention to practice and 48% of perceived behavioural control. Consequently, the study reveals that behavioural intention to practice surveying depends on the self-efficacy of the practitioner.

STUDY OF QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF FLOUR AND AMALA PRODUCED FROM WHITE YAM (DIOSCOREA ROTUNDATA), UNRIPE PLANTAIN (MUSA PARADISIACA) AND SWEET POTATO (IPOMOEA BATATAS)

2024-07-06T07:51:31+00:00

Traditionally to the Nigerian southwestern culture, amala is exclusively obtained from yam or cassava flours. Enhancing the availability of amala and making different varieties available to consumers, will require the comparison of amala produced from other sources. Therefore, yam, unripe plantain and sweet potato flours were produced using standard methods, and subjected to analysis for their proximate composition, functional properties, and pasting characteristics. Amala produced from the flours using the standard method was sensorially evaluated by 30 member panellists using a 9-point hedonic scale. The proximate values of flour samples were moisture content (7.26-8.38%), protein (4.33-5.13%), fat (2.56-4.10%), fibre (2.56-4.10), ash (1.36-3.04%), and carbohydrate (73.75-81.36), with energy ranging from 302.10 to 311.40kcals, respectively. Functional analysis revealed varying bulk density, swelling capacity, and water absorption index, ranging from 0.45 to 0.59 g/cm³, 1.35 to 1.71 g/cm³, and 2.34 to 6.93 g/cm³, respectively. The peak viscosity, trough viscosity, breakdown viscosity, final viscosity, setback viscosity, peak time, and pasting temperature ranged from 4315.50 to 6613.00 cP, 2786.00 to 4385.00 cP, 45.00 to3827.00 cP, 3926.50 to 6474.5 cP, and 4.13 to 6.93 minutes, respectively. All amala samples produced received high likeness ratings in all sensory attributes while the overall likeness was for unripe plantain amala. Considering, the comparative nutritional and sensory properties of all flour samples studied, the utilisation of yam, unripe plantain and orange-fleshed sweet potato flours for amala preparation would provide variety and enhance food security.

SAFEGUARDING DATA INTEGRITY: A COMPREHENSIVE EXPLORATION OF DATABASE BACKUP AND RECOVERY USING TAMPER-RESISTANT PROPERTIES OF BLOCKCHAIN

2024-07-06T08:53:48+00:00

Data integrity is a critical concern in database management systems, particularly in ensuring the security and reliability of stored information. Traditional methods of database backup and recovery face challenges such as centralized control, vulnerability to tampering, and single points of failure. This paper presents a comprehensive exploration of leveraging blockchain technology to enhance database backup and recovery processes, thereby safeguarding data integrity. Drawing on the decentralized and tamper-resistant properties of blockchain, this study investigates how blockchain can be integrated into database backup and recovery systems to mitigate risks associated with data manipulation, unauthorized access, and data loss. The proposed approach utilizes cryptographic hashing, decentralized storage, consensus mechanisms, and smart contracts to create secure, transparent, and auditable backups of database records. Through a detailed analysis of existing literature, case studies, and technical implementations, this paper evaluates the effectiveness and feasibility of blockchain-based solutions for database backup and recovery. It discusses the benefits of blockchain technology in ensuring data immutability, integrity verification, and fault tolerance while addressing potential challenges and limitations.

ANTICORROSION ACTIVITY OF LAUNAEA TARAXACIFOLIA LEAVES ON MILD STEEL IN ACID MEDIUM

2024-07-06T07:41:49+00:00

The effectiveness of Launaea taraxacifolia leaf extract (LTLE), ethanol leaf extract as a green anti-corrosive inhibiting agent for mild steel corrosion in 0.5 mol/dm³ HCl was investigated using the gravimetric techniques at temperatures ranging from 303 to 333 K. The results demonstrated LTLE's ability to inhibit corrosion in acidic conditions, with higher inhibition efficiency (95.41%) observed at lower temperatures (303K) and higher extract concentrations (5% v/v). For instance, even at a 5% v/v concentration, inhibition rates reached approximately 95.41 % at 303 K and 85.76 % at 333 K. Thermodynamic parameters, including ΔG_ads, were determined using the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, confirming a monolayer adsorption of the inhibiting agent on the mild steel surface. The ethanol extract of L. taraxacifolia leaves proved to be an effective anti-corrosive inhibiting agent due to its composition rich in essential oils, steroids, triterpenes, and a variety of complex flavonoids, chalcones, and flavones.

NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY OF ELDERLY IN SELECTED COMMUNITIES IN YEWA SOUTH, OGUN STATE

2024-07-06T08:36:16+00:00

This study assessed the nutritional status and functional capacity of Elderly in selected communities in Yewa south, Ogun state. By using a multi-stage sampling process, 320 respondents in total were selected. Data was collected from the respondents using a semi-structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was in sections, and it contained questions on the socio demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, and functional capacity of the respondents. Anthropometric measurements were taken and the BMI was determined and compared to WHO reference standard. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the study data utilizing statistical product and service solutions (SPSS v. 20.0). The result shows that majority of the respondents were between the ages of 60-64 years (45.3%) and belong to Yoruba ethnic group (89.4%). Also, 30.3% of respondents had secondary school certificate, 32.2% were petty traders and 79.4% of the respondents earned above ₦20,000 monthly. Close to half of the respondents (45.9%) had normal weight, while 38.8% of the respondents were overweight. In addition, 3.1% and 12.2% were underweight and obese respectively. The result for functional capacity shows that 96.9% had a normal self-care activity, and for self-care activity functionality, 96.9% were independent. Furthermore, 82.5% of the respondents had a normal household care activity and 82.5% of them household care functionality are independent. For enjoyment and recreational activities, majority of the respondents (87.8%) have a normal activity; similarly, 87.8% of them can also carry out their activity independently. It was concluded that majority of the elderly can carry out their Basic Activities of Daily Living (BADL) and also Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) independently. Significance association (P<0.05) was observed between some socio-economic characteristics and nutritional status.

THE EFFECT OF CO-FERMENTATION OF MILLET GRAINS WITH SPICES (GARLIC OR GINGER) ON FLOUR PROPERTIES AND PORRIDGE QUALITY

2024-07-06T07:22:00+00:00

The effect of co-fermentation of millet grains with spices (garlic or ginger) on flour properties and porridge quality was investigated. Millet grains were co-fermented with spices (at 2% and 4% of garlic or ginger) singly and when combined for 72 h at 25±2 ℃, each in a separate container. The resulting fermented mash of each sample was separated into two equal portions, one dried into flour and the other made into porridge. Samples without garlic or ginger were used as a control. Bulk density, water absorption and swelling capacities of flours were determined. At the same time, the porridges were analysed for their pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), specific gravity (SG), and sensory quality using standard procedures. The results showed a significant increase in values of bulk density and swelling capacity, while the water absorption capacity decreased in samples containing ginger or garlic. The pH, TTA and SG increased significantly with adding garlic or ginger. The aroma, viscosity, mouthfeel, aftertaste and residual particles of porridge samples showed significant differences with spice addition. Thus porridge with a combination of 4% garlic and ginger had the highest overall acceptability score. Panellists’ preference for porridge prepared from 4% garlic and 4% ginger is higher compared to the other porridges. Porridge made from flours containing individual spices was perceived to exhibit a reduction in viscosity with mouth feel. This suggests that porridge with ginger or garlic could be an ideal weaning diet for the elderly or sick

SPECIES DIVERSIFICATION, A POSITIVE TREND TOWARD NIGERIA’S AQUACULTURE SUSTAINABILITY: A REVIEW.

2024-07-06T08:30:22+00:00

With its large population of approximately 150 million people, Nigeria has a significant fish demand, estimated at 2.66 million metric tons in 2012. However, local fish production only meets a portion of this demand, producing 1.32 million metric tons annually, of which 0.62 million metric tons come from aquaculture. Though critical for food security and economic diversification, this sector is currently underdeveloped, producing only 200,000 metric tons against a potential of 2.5–4.0 million metric tons. Aquaculture development is essential to meet Nigeria's fish demand and promote economic growth. Nigeria’s aquaculture output has increased significantly, with tilapia and catfish being the predominant species. However, further growth and diversification are needed to close the supply-demand gap. Introducing exotic species like Rohu, Pangasius, climbing perch, and common carp presents a viable solution to enhance productivity. These species exhibit favourable traits such as fast growth, high nutritional value, adaptability to diverse environments, and efficient feed conversion. The integration of these species into Nigeria's aquaculture sector could substantially improve fish production, support food security, and provide economic opportunities. This review highlights the current state of aquaculture in Nigeria, the challenges faced, and the potential benefits of diversifying fish species. By leveraging existing infrastructure and addressing key challenges, Nigeria can enhance its aquaculture sector, reduce its fish import dependency, and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.

SEMEN CHARACTERISTICS, HAEMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM- BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF COCKS DRENCHED VARYING LEVELS OF CLOVE POWDER (SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM)

2024-07-06T09:06:34+00:00

The use of botanicals has been proposed as a potential alternative to conventional therapeutic options. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of clove powder (Syzygium aromaticum) on semen characteristics, haematological and serum-biochemical indices of cocks. Clove powder was drenched in 60 sexually matured (52 weeks old) and healthy, light ecotype Nigerian local cocks (weighing between 1.5 and 1.8 kg) cocks at 0.0, 0.05, 1.00 and 1.5 g. Semen volume, spermatozoa progressive motility, liveability, acrosome integrity, spermatozoa concentration and normal spermatozoa were evaluated for semen characteristics. Haematological parameters measured were: packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), haemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), Mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC). In contrast, serum biochemical parameters evaluated were total protein, albumin, globulin, uric acid, creatinine, cholesterol and glucose. Data obtained were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance. Semen volume (0.44 – 0.47ml), sperm cell progressive motility (80.00 – 93.33%) and acrosome integrity (83.33 – 90.00%) showed significant differences (p<0.05), in favour of birds drenched 1.50g CP. The RBC values showed a significant (p<0.05) difference (3.64 – 3.76 x 10⁶/mL), as the level of CP increases, the value of RBC decreases. There exists a significant difference (p<0.05) in Hb (3.64 – 12.86 g/dL) with the highest value in 0.00g CP, MCH (32.79 – 36.86 fl) and MCHC (31.62 – 32.85%) showed significant difference (p<0.05) in favour of 1.50g CP. Total protein showed significant difference (p<0.05) with values ranging between 4.46 and 5.40 g/dL. There exists a significant difference (p<0.05) in the mean value of albumin, with the highest value in 1.50g CP (5.40) in favour of 1.50 g CP. Drenching cocks with clove powder up to 1.5g was discovered posing no harmful effect on cocks.

ANTHROPOMETRIC INDICES AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE OF SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN IN SAGAMU, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA.

2024-07-06T07:55:42+00:00

This study examined the anthropometric status and cognitive performance of school-age children in Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey with multistage sampling approaches was carried out on 250 school children, to gather data on their socio-demographic characteristics. The World Health Organization's Anthro Plus software was used to calculate body mass index for age, height for age, and nutritional status using the anthropometric assessment approach. Additionally, the respondent's academic performance was evaluated through the use of a cognitive questionnaire, which included questions about drawing the human figure, thinking patterns, numerical recall, and sentence structure. Results showed that the respondents' mean weight, height, age, and gender did not differ significantly. The nutritional state of the respondent showed that, while 65.2% had a normal BMI-for-age, (28.4%), (5.6%), and (0.8%) were mildly, moderately, and severely thin respectively. Of the respondents, a majority had a normal nutritional status, 36, 11.2, and 1.2% were mildly, moderately, and severely stunted. In addition, nearly all the respondents performed well academically in terms of number recall; around 90% are very excellent at pattern reasoning. In conclusion, anthropometric indices were found to be significantly correlated with students' cognitive ability.